What is PDF Permissions?
Flags inside a PDF that limit actions like printing, copying, or editing — enforced by viewers, not cryptography.
PDF permission flags ask viewers to restrict copy, print, edit, or extract operations. They are enforced cooperatively by compliant viewers and are removable by ignoring the flags, so they are a usability signal — not a security control. Real protection requires encryption.
Related terms
- PDF Encryption — Cryptographic protection that requires a password to open or modify a PDF — typically AES-128 or AES-256.
Category: Security